How to Prevent Falls at Home: Essential Safety Tips

Falls are one of the leading causes of injury, especially among older adults and individuals with mobility challenges. However, with a few adjustments, you can make your home a safer place and reduce the risk of falls. Here are some essential safety tips to help prevent falls at home.

1. Keep Walkways Clear

Cluttered floors, loose rugs, and misplaced items can be major tripping hazards.
✅ Remove unnecessary furniture or objects from hallways and pathways.
✅ Secure rugs with non-slip backing or remove them altogether.
✅ Keep frequently used items within easy reach to avoid unnecessary stretching or bending.

2. Improve Lighting in Every Room

Poor lighting can make it difficult to see obstacles, increasing the risk of tripping.
✅ Install bright LED lights in hallways, staircases, and entryways.
✅ Use nightlights in bedrooms and bathrooms for better visibility at night.
✅ Ensure light switches are easy to reach or use motion-sensor lights for convenience.

3. Make Bathrooms Safer

Bathrooms are a common place for falls due to wet surfaces and limited support.
✅ Install grab bars near the toilet, shower, and bathtub for extra stability.
✅ Use non-slip mats inside and outside the shower or tub.
✅ Consider a walk-in shower or bath with a seat for safer access.

4. Use Supportive Furniture and Mobility Aids

Proper furniture and mobility aids can enhance stability and prevent falls.
✅ Use rise and recline chairs to make sitting and standing easier.
✅ Consider an adjustable bed to reduce strain when getting in and out of bed.
✅ If needed, use a walking aid, such as a cane or walker, for extra support.

5. Install a Stairlift if Needed

If stairs are becoming difficult to navigate, a stairlift can provide a safer alternative.
✅ Straight stairlifts for simple staircases.
✅ Curved stairlifts for more complex staircases.
✅ Regular stairlift maintenance ensures safe and smooth operation.

6. Wear Proper Footwear

Slippery or ill-fitting shoes can contribute to falls.
✅ Wear non-slip, well-fitted shoes with good grip.
✅ Avoid slippers with loose soles or walking in socks on smooth surfaces.

7. Stay Active to Improve Strength and Balance

Regular exercise can improve balance, coordination, and muscle strength, reducing the likelihood of falls.
✅ Gentle activities like yoga, tai chi, or seated exercises can enhance stability.
✅ If mobility is limited, try physiotherapy exercises tailored to your needs.

8. Be Mindful of Medications

Some medications may cause dizziness or drowsiness, increasing the risk of falling.
✅ Review your medications with your doctor or pharmacist.
✅ Stand up slowly after sitting or lying down to prevent dizziness.

9. Have an Emergency Plan

Even with precautions, falls can still happen. Having an emergency plan in place can ensure quick assistance.
✅ Keep a mobile phone or emergency alert device within reach.
✅ Inform family members or caregivers of your routine and check in regularly.
✅ Consider a fall detection system for added security.

Final Thoughts

Preventing falls at home is about creating a safe, comfortable, and accessible environment. Simple changes—like improving lighting, using mobility aids, and keeping walkways clear—can make a big difference in reducing fall risks.

At Independent Mobility, we provide mobility solutions, from stairlifts to rise and recline chairs, to help you live safely and independently. Contact us today for expert advice on making your home fall-proof!